Earl Spencer, the custodian of the Spencer family’s ancestral home, Althorp House, recently shared a stunning view of the lavish property on Instagram. The video showcased the beautiful summer sunshine, highlighting the property and its grounds in all their glory. Surrounded by a bright blue sky, Althorp House stood proud, offering a brief yet enchanting glimpse into its rich history.
During the summer months, Althorp House opens its doors to the public, allowing visitors to explore the estate where Charles Spencer and his sister, Princess Diana, spent their formative years. Earl Spencer revealed that the summer opening and closing dates hold special significance for the family. While the estate usually opens on July 1st (Diana’s birthday) and closes on August 31st (the day she passed away), this year, the house will close a few days earlier on August 29th. However, visitors can still enjoy a special exhibition never seen before, showcasing a stunning canoe gifted to Charles for his 60th birthday.
A Grand Estate with Rich History
Althorp House, a Grade I listed stately home, boasts a sprawling estate spanning over 13,000 acres, with the house and gardens occupying 550 acres. The property has been in the Spencer family for over 500 years and holds a treasure trove of art accumulated over centuries. Charles Spencer inherited the estate in 1992 after his father’s passing and later married Countess (Karen) Spencer in 2011. Together, they have a daughter, Charlotte Diana.
Charles’s announcement of the estate’s summer opening and the new exhibition on social media reflects his deep appreciation for the history and beauty of Althorp House. He expressed gratitude for the generous gift of the canoe, emphasizing its significance alongside the works of art within the house.”I still can’t get my head round the generosity, craftsmanship and thoughtfulness of this gift in a million,” he shared on social media.
While Althorp House stands as a testament to the Spencer family’s legacy, it also holds personal memories for Earl Spencer. His marriage to Countess Spencer, their daughter, and the announcement of their divorce earlier this year speak to the complexities of life intertwined with history and tradition. Despite the personal challenges, Althorp House remains a beacon of beauty and history for all who visit.
As visitors walk through the halls of Althorp House, they are transported back in time, experiencing the grandeur and elegance of centuries past. The rich tapestry of history woven into the walls and gardens of the estate tells a story of love, loss, and legacy. Althorp House stands as a living monument to the Spencer family, inviting all who enter to be a part of its ongoing narrative.